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Guzzi Automatic?

As we discussed in our article dated November 10, 2002, automatic and semi-automatic transmissions won’t be just for scooters, soon. Moto Guzzi is rumored to be developing an automatic for its v-twin engine, which may be introduced as early as 2004.

With a two-valve, air-cooled motor gracing its line up, you might not think of Moto Guzzi as high-tech. Its heritage is high-tech, however, as it was one of the first to introduce linked brakes, an anti-jacking shaft drive system and, believe it or not, automatic transmissions (in the 1970s).

While tourers might be the most logical candidate for a modern automatic transmission in the motorcycle world, Guzzi might be the first with a production machine, and it may grace several of its v-twin bikes (not just a tourer).